Left Atrial–Esophageal Fistula After Pulmonary Vein Isolation

Abstract

A 56-year-old man presented with a 3-day history of progressive epigastric burning, dysphagia, and tactile fever. These symptoms started approximately 4 weeks after an uncomplicated pulmonary vein isolation procedure for atrial fibrillation had been performed at an outside facility. At the time of presentation, the patient was found to be febrile, and blood cultures were positive for Streptococcus viridans growth. Appropriate antibiotic therapy was started at that time. Chest x-ray did not reveal any abnormal findings. Because endocarditis was suspected, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms were performed, but no valvular abnormalities were found. Subsequently, he developed right arm and right leg weakness and a naming deficit associated with anomia, acalculia, and agraphia. He was then transferred to our hospital for further evaluation. At the time of transfer, the …